Olympus History

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• History of Cameras
  • 1936-1970
  • 1971-1992
    • OM Series
    • OM Two Digit Series
    • XA Capsule Cameras
    • Autofocus Cameras
    • Fully Automatic Zoom Cameras
  • 1991-
  • Camera Lineup
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These ultra-compact models were developed as compact, lightweight cameras that would be small enough to slip into a pocket. This concept was realized by adding a sliding barrier that turned the shell into a capsule. The XA Series cameras were extremely attractive products that maximized the flexibility of compact cameras.

XA

XA2

XA4

XA   (1979) The XA capsule camera was launched in 1979. It was fitted with a barrier-type lens cover that eliminated the need for a case. Extremely portable and ready to shoot at a moment's notice, this superb compact camera also incorporated a range of sophisticated features, including a built-in rangefinder and aperture-preferred AE. There was also an externally mounted strobe flash unit designed to harmonize with the XA body. The XA was the first full-featured camera in which plastic materials were used for the body and other key parts. Olympus upgraded its plastic molding system and established new technologies to produce this camera.

XA2   (1980) Based on the XA, the XA2 was modified to make it suitable for novice photographers. It went on sale in 1980. To maximize ease of use and cost performance, its functions were limited to program AE and 3-zone autofocus (auto-pan focus). The focus was automatically set to medium distance whenever the slide barrier was opened or closed, in case the user forgot to switch the focus control. The XA2 was available in four body colors and was the first camera to win a Good Design award from the Japanese Ministry of International Trade and Industry.

XA2 Three XA2 Color Variations

XA4   (1985) The XA4 went on sale in 1985. It had a 28mm wide-angle lens and was also capable of macro photography at a minimum distance of 30cm. The XA4 came with a strap that could be used to check the distance from the subject. Like the XA2, the range setting was automatically reset to 3m whenever the slide barrier was opened or closed in case the user forgot to switch the focus control.

* Other products can be viewed on the product line-up page.

* The information shown is based on information in initial product announcements.

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